If there’s one thing I’ve learned as both a military spouse and a small business owner, it’s this: you cannot do it alone. Life is already unpredictable when you’re constantly moving, rebuilding, and starting over—but add entrepreneurship into the mix? That’s a whole new level of challenge. The good news? Community changes everything.
Over the years, I’ve learned that finding the right people—whether online or in person—makes all the difference. Here’s why community matters, how I’ve built mine, and how you can start building yours.
Why Community is a Game Changer
For Military Spouses: Because Starting Over is Hard
One of the hardest parts of military life is constantly leaving behind friends, jobs, and routines. Every PCS means starting over—new house, new city, new people. It’s exhausting. But finding a community, whether through a spouse group, a local business network, or an online space, makes it easier.
When you have people who get it, suddenly you’re not alone in the chaos of deployments, last-minute orders, or the infamous “hurry up and wait” cycle.
For Entrepreneurs: Because Business Can Feel Lonely
Starting a business is exciting, but let’s be real—it can also feel isolating. You’re wearing all the hats, making all the decisions, and navigating challenges that most of your non-business-owning friends might not understand.
But when you have a community of fellow entrepreneurs, everything changes. You have people to bounce ideas off of, to vent to when things get hard, and to celebrate with when things go right.
How I’ve Built My Community (And How You Can Too)
1. Showing Up (Even When It Feels Awkward)
The first step? Put yourself out there. I know—it can feel awkward at first. But whether it’s attending a local event, joining an online group, or even just engaging with people on social media, the more you show up, the more connections you’ll make.
When we PCS’d to a new duty station, I forced myself to attend a spouse meetup even though I really didn’t want to go. That one event led me to some of my closest friends. The same thing happened in my business—when I started networking with other small business owners, opportunities I never expected started opening up.
2. Finding the Right Spaces
Not every group or platform will be the right fit for you, and that’s okay. The key is finding the spaces where you feel supported, not drained.
• For Military Spouses: Check out local spouse groups, virtual communities, or military-affiliated organizations (like Spouse-ly or the Dog Tag Fellowship!).
• For Entrepreneurs: Look for small business Facebook groups, networking events, or local maker markets. Follow and engage with business owners you admire on social media—sometimes, the best connections happen in the comments!
3. Giving More Than You Take
One of the best ways to build a strong community? Support others first. Instead of only looking for what you can get out of a group, focus on what you can give. Cheer people on, share their wins, offer advice when you can.
When I started highlighting other military spouse entrepreneurs, I didn’t do it expecting anything in return—I did it because I believe in supporting fellow spouses who are building something for themselves. But you know what happened? Those relationships turned into genuine friendships, collaborations, and even business opportunities.
4. Knowing When to Walk Away
Not every community will be a good fit. If a space feels negative, competitive, or draining, it’s okay to leave. The right community will feel uplifting, not exhausting.
The Power of Finding Your People
At the end of the day, the best thing about community isn’t just the networking or the business growth—it’s knowing that you’re not alone. Whether it’s a fellow military spouse who understands the struggle of yet another PCS, or a business bestie who reminds you that slow seasons are normal, having the right people around you makes everything better.
So, if you’re feeling isolated—whether in military life or business—start looking for your people. They’re out there, and trust me, they’ll make all the difference.
Your Turn: How Has Community Helped You?
I’d love to hear your stories! Have you found an amazing community that’s supported you through military life or business? Drop a comment and let’s chat!